State Tax Forms
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by J.P. Finet, J.D. | Last reviewed April 30, 2024
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
Every state imposes taxes on its residents and businesses, whether through income tax, property tax, or other forms of taxation to fund government services. These tax forms are typically required to be filed annually and are usually due on the same date as federal income tax returns.
If you're looking for the necessary forms, the list below includes the links to the tax agencies in each state (and the District of Columbia), where you can download any necessary tax forms for free.
While residents of all states use the same forms to file their federal income tax returns, state income tax forms differ from state to state. As a result, you'll need to use the appropriate forms to file your state income tax return.
State vs. Federal Taxes: Are They the Same?
No, they aren't exactly the same. Most state tax laws are similar to federal tax law, but each state usually differs from the federal rules in some way. Some states choose to omit only certain parts of the Internal Revenue Code (federal tax law), while other states omit nearly all of it. Some states have even created a radically different income tax system that uses a flat rate for all taxpayers instead of the bracketed tax rates that the IRS uses.
Forty-three states and the District of Columbia impose individual income taxes. The definition of taxable income varies by state (for example, New Hampshire and Tennessee only tax income from dividends and interest), but most states generally follow the federal definition, except that taxpayers who itemize in many states may not deduct state income taxes paid. In addition, states often apply different rules than the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for other types of income and have differing tax rates.
No State Income Tax
Only seven states currently do not levy a state income tax: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming. As mentioned above, residents of New Hampshire and Tennessee are also spared from handing over an extra chunk of their paycheck on April 15, though they do pay taxes on dividends and income from investments.
State Earned Income Credit
Families that qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) can reduce the amount of taxes they owe and, since the credit is refundable, even receive money back from the government if the amount of the credit exceeds the amount of taxes owed. Twenty-three states and the District of Columbia offer their own version of EITC.
File Early
Remember, the earlier you file your return, the earlier you will get your refund. State tax agencies tend to be short on staff and are likely to be swamped during April. Getting your return in early and avoiding the April 15th crunch time will help ensure that your return is processed faster. Consider e-filing if your state offers it as an alternative to filing a hard copy through the mail. E-filing also reduces the time it takes the state to process your return and offers more security for your personal information than using standard mail.
Hire a Tax Lawyer
Tax codes can be complicated. Consider speaking with an accountant or tax attorney in your state if you have additional questions about filing and paying your personal income tax.
Research the Law:
- Details on Personal Income Tax Laws
- Official State Codes - Links to the official online statutes (laws) in all 50 states and DC.
State Tax Laws: Related Resources
Still Have Questions? Talk to a Tax Lawyer
If you're confused about which tax forms you should use to file your state returns or whether you should file at all, a local tax attorney can help. Tax attorneys understand state and federal filing requirements. They can provide guidance on which forms need to be filed and where. They can also help you prepare your returns and provide tax planning services.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- You may need a certified public accountant (CPA), enrolled agent (EA), or a tax attorney for your tax issues or IRS concerns
- Complex tax cases (such as back taxes, criminal tax matters, tax litigation, or serious issues with the IRS) may need the support of an attorney
Tax issues and IRS matters can be challenging. A tax attorney has advanced training to offer tailored advice to resolve complicated tax situations.
Stay up-to-date with how the law affects your life

Learn more about FindLaw’s newsletters, including our terms of use and privacy policy.